Indy Airport Commemorates 23rd Anniversary of 9/11

INDIANAPOLIS (Sept. 11, 2024) – The Indianapolis Airport Authority hosted its annual ceremony at the Indianapolis International Airport (IND) today to honor the nearly 3,000 individuals who lost their lives this day 23 years ago during the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack.

IAA first responders and local officials from the Transportation Security Administration participated in today’s annual ceremony to remember victims and first responders who lost their lives at the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and United Flight 93 over Pennsylvania.

“While it has been almost a quarter of a century since this Sept. 11 attack, we unite each year to remember and honor those who perished, and recognize the willingness of our first responders to sacrifice for their fellow Americans,” said IAA Executive Director Mario Rodriguez.

A piece of the World Trade Center steel recovered from Ground Zero, measuring approximately 12” x 12” x 6” and weighing about 40 pounds, was placed on display in Civic Plaza for the day.

“This day is dedicated to honor so many – for their courage, like the passengers of Flight 93 who selflessly saved so many, and the bravery of our first responders who willingly rushed into harm’s way,” said IAA Sr. Director of Operations and Public Safety Keith Berlen. “These acts boldly demonstrate the spirit of the American people.”

In 2011, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey presented the recovered steel to local Indianapolis public safety responders and IAA employees who assisted at the attack site in 2001. The artifact remains on display permanently at the Indy airport’s fire station 1 throughout the year.

“It is a symbol of the iron resolve of our first responders who willingly rushed into the flaming peril of Ground Zero,” said IAA Deputy Fire Chief Steve Summers. “Their legacy lives on, and we remember them on this day each year to ensure it does.”

For media images of today’s event, please click here.